Masterchef The Professionals contestant Nick Collins is aiming to double the size of his high-end catering business in the next three years.
And he has chosen a new base at recently-refurbished Cardiff Bay Business Centre to help him do it.
Cleverchefs, which provides high restaurant standard catering to weddings and special events, is one of Wales’ most dynamic young businesses.
The award-winning firm has a growing list of A-List celebs on its books and is gaining a reputation in the super-yacht world.
It’s been a year of accolades for Cleverchefs, scooping Food Awards Wales 2018, Caterer of the Year and the Wedding Industry Awards.
In Wales the firm has picked up the catering contract for Techniquest, and been appointed to cater at the prestigious St Tewdric’s House in Chepstow, owned by Olympic cyclist Geraint Thomas.
To cope with demand, the firm has taken additional premises in Cardiff, moving into Cardiff Bay Business Centre, owned and run by Tata Steel subsidiary UK Steel Enterprise.
“We are planning to grow and needed more space, so this was ideal,” said Nick. The location, too, was perfect with easy access to the M4.
“It was definitely the right decision to move here,” added Nick.
The firm now has 40 staff, and is aiming to double that within three years, he said.
“The last 12 months has been fantastic and we are looking forward to expanding the business in Wales and across the South West of England,” added Nick.
Nick began his career as a chef at the age of 16. He gained experience in Michelin starred restaurants in London, and was a contestant in Masterchef The Professionals in 2008.
“I was always interested in the top end of the food business, achieving the highest standards possible.
“I spotted a gap in the market for top quality catering for events, and set up Cleverchefs, and never looked back.”
Andrea Rogerson-Hewett of UK Steel Enterprise, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Cleverchefs here to the community of businesses in CBBC, and wish them continued success.”
CBBC recently completed a £1 million refurbishment improving facilities. The business centre is well located in Cardiff Bay and offers ample parking, a gym for tenants and super fast broadband.